Composer

:

William Payn

Genre

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Miscellaneous

Style

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Miscellaneous

Average_duration

:

6:12

"Psalm of Peace" is a choral work composed by William Payn, an American composer, conductor, and educator. The piece was composed in 2001, in response to the tragic events of September 11th, and was premiered on November 11th of the same year by the Susquehanna University Choir, under the direction of Payn himself. The work is divided into three movements, each of which is based on a different text. The first movement, "Psalm 23," is a setting of the well-known biblical text, and features a gentle, flowing melody that is passed between the different sections of the choir. The second movement, "The Peace of Wild Things," is a setting of a poem by Wendell Berry, which speaks to the healing power of nature. The music is more complex in this movement, with intricate harmonies and shifting rhythms that reflect the text's sense of movement and change. The final movement, "Dona Nobis Pacem," is a traditional Latin text that translates to "Grant us peace." This movement is the most powerful of the three, with a soaring melody and rich harmonies that build to a climactic finish. Throughout the work, Payn's characteristic style is evident. He is known for his use of lush harmonies, soaring melodies, and intricate rhythms, all of which are on display in "Psalm of Peace." The work is also notable for its sense of emotional depth and sincerity, which is particularly evident in the final movement. Overall, "Psalm of Peace" is a powerful and moving work that speaks to the human need for peace and healing in times of tragedy and loss.

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